Quick answer
返 is the kanji for "Return". A common reading is かえ.す (kaesu). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
Return
Also : Repay · Answer · Restore
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
7 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 返 represents 'RETURN'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of return.
On-reading: へん — remember this sound by associating it with return. Kun-reading: かえ.す.
Example Sentences
借りたものを返しました。
かりたものをかえしました。
I returned what I borrowed.
メールに返信しました。
めーるにへんしんしました。
I replied to the email.
Vocabulary using 返
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
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